"Raytheon's KIV-77 represents the next generation in secured combat identification for U.S. and coalition forces," said Brian McKeon, vice president, Raytheon Network Centric Systems' Integrated Communications Systems. "The ultimate goal of this enhanced technology is the prevention of fratricide.

"This significant award reflects confidence in Raytheon to produce this critical, leading technology so vital to protecting the warfighter in battle."

This U.S. Air Force award brings Raytheon's orders for the KIV-77 to more than 3,600 units, including the program's low rate initial production phase under which approximately 1,000 KIV-77 units were delivered ahead of contract schedule.

A premier cryptographic device for combat identification, Raytheon is under contract that allows for KIV-77 additional orders and deliveries into 2014, and the company expects this unit to be in continual production through 2020.

Raytheon Company, with 2010 sales of $25 billion, is a technology and innovation leader specializing in defense, homeland security and other government markets throughout the world. With a history of innovation spanning 89 years, Raytheon provides state-of-the-art electronics, mission systems integration and other capabilities in the areas of sensing; effects; and command, control, communications and intelligence systems, as well as a broad range of mission support services. With headquarters in Waltham, Mass., Raytheon employs 72,000 people worldwide.